2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (261 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 459 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Caprice is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (353 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt has manual transmission. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1981 Chevrolet Caprice | |
Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
Model | Cobalt | Caprice |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 5002 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 261 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 353 Nm | 333 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1720 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2020 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2950 mm |